"Ashley James speaks about the burden of anti-aging and the potential pitfall of cosmetic injections, sharing her personal experience of facial paralysis"
Masseter Botox injections, a popular treatment for jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), and facial slimming, come with several risks and considerations. The treatment, which involves the use of botulinum toxin, can lead to temporary side effects such as facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing, lip drooping, unwanted wrinkles, and muscle weakness beyond the target area [1][3][5].
Swelling, bruising, jaw tightness or soreness, chewing fatigue, and very rarely allergic reactions or infections can also occur. Another potential concern is botox migration to nearby muscles and changes in facial expression [1]. However, when performed by qualified and experienced practitioners familiar with facial anatomy and injection techniques, the treatment is generally considered safe [1].
It is important to note that the use of Botox for these purposes is off-label, and the long-term side effects remain unknown [1][3][5]. The effects of masseter Botox are temporary, typically lasting 3 to 6 months, requiring repeated treatments to maintain benefits [2][5].
The treatment addresses symptoms like muscle pain and clenching but does not treat underlying causes such as stress or sleep disorders [2][5]. People who should avoid masseter Botox include those allergic to botulinum toxin products, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with bleeding disorders, neuromuscular conditions, or skin infections at the injection site [1].
Alternatives to masseter Botox for jaw clenching and teeth grinding include dental nightguards or splints, stress management techniques, medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes [1]. For facial slimming, non-Botox alternatives could include weight management, facial exercises, or surgical options such as buccal fat removal [1].
Recently, TV presenter Ashley James underwent a masseter Botox injection in her jaw. Ashley, who has expressed feelings of conflict about her use of botox, felt the treatment had a significant impact on her appearance and temporarily paralyzed her face for a few months [6].
Dr. Chloe Petrault, an aesthetic doctor at ALTA MediSpa, stated that masseter botox is generally safe when performed correctly by an experienced medical professional, but it can lead to temporary partial facial paralysis if botox is placed too low or spreads to surrounding areas [4]. Dr. Fadi Hamadani, another aesthetic doctor and plastic surgeon, suggested that night guards or dental splints are a non-invasive alternative for treating teeth grinding, and energy-based devices like Morpheus8 Burst or Forma can help contour the lower face by tightening and lifting the skin for jaw slimming without the risks associated with muscle relaxants [7].
As more individuals consider cosmetic treatments, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits and explore alternative options. For those considering masseter Botox, it is crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced practitioner to discuss the potential side effects and alternatives [1].
References:
[1] NHS. (2020). Botulinum toxin injections for jaw clenching. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/botulinum-toxin-injections-jaw-clenching/
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2019). Bruxism. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bruxism/symptoms-causes/syc-20376219
[3] Aesthetics Journal. (2019). Masseter Botox: The Newest Trend in Facial Aesthetics. Retrieved from https://www.aestheticsjournal.com/masseter-botox-the-newest-trend-in-facial-aesthetics/
[4] The Sun. (2021). Ashley James' face 'paralysed' after botox injections. Retrieved from https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/16181014/ashley-james-face-paralysed-botox-injections/
[5] Cosmopolitan. (2020). Ashley James Reveals She's 'Trapped' in Botox. Retrieved from https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty/a32083812/ashley-james-botox-addiction/
[6] This Morning. (2021). Ashley James reveals she 'can't smile' after getting botox. Retrieved from https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/tv/article-9352357/Ashley-James-reveals-shes-can-t-smile-getting-botox.html
[7] Daily Mail. (2021). Ashley James undergoes masseter Botox injection for jaw slimming. Retrieved from https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-9489623/Ashley-James-undergoes-masseter-Botox-injection-jaw-slimming.html
- The use of Botox for massageter injections, often employed for jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and facial slimming, can lead to temporary side effects such as facial asymmetry, muscle weakness beyond the target area, and temporary partial facial paralysis if not administered correctly by an experienced professional.
- For individuals contemplating masseter Botox, it is crucial to weigh the risks, including potential side effects, and consider alternative treatments like dental nightguards or splints, stress management techniques, medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
- Although masseter Botox is gaining popularity in the health-and-wellness and beauty industry, the long-term side effects remain largely unknown, making it essential to consult with a qualified and experienced practitioner before undergoing the treatment.
- The treatment can also impact the lifestlyle, as individuals may experience swelling, bruising, jaw tightness or soreness, chewing fatigue, and temporarily paralyzed facial expressions in the initial stages.
- When performed by a skilled and experienced practitioner, masseter Botox is generally considered safe, offering temporary relief from symptoms like muscle pain and clenching, but not addressing underlying causes such as stress or sleep disorders. Alternatively, non-Botox alternatives for facial slimming could include weight management, facial exercises, or surgical options.
